One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Cook a complete dinner in one pot with this One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and uses mostly pantry-stable items. With its creamy texture and bold Cajun flavors, it will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick meal, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic nights.
• Minimal Cleanup: Using only one pot means less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices creates a creamy, spicy sauce that elevates simple chicken pasta to gourmet status.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, allowing for endless variations.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves four, making it great for family dinners or when entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making the One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep skillet: This is essential for cooking everything in one pot, ensuring even heat distribution.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board allows you to safely prepare your ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables and cutting chicken effortless.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Cook a complete dinner in one pot with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, using mostly pantry-stable items. Perfect for busy weeknights!

For the Cajun Seasoning

• 2 tsp smoked paprika ($0.20)
• 1 tsp oregano ($0.10)
• 1 tsp thyme ($0.10)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder ($0.05)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder ($0.05)
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper ($0.03)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper ($0.02)
• 1/4 tsp salt ($0.02)

For the Pasta Dish

• 1 Tbsp olive oil ($0.16)
• 1 Tbsp butter ($0.13)
• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast ($5.47)
• 1 yellow onion, diced ($0.32)
• 1/2 lb. penne pasta (uncooked) ($0.75)
• 15 oz. fire roasted diced tomatoes ($1.00)
• 2 cups chicken broth ($0.26)
• 2 oz. cream cheese ($0.50)
• 3 green onions, sliced ($0.25)

How to Make One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Seasoning

Combine the ingredients for the Cajun seasoning in a small bowl:
1. Measure out the smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
2. Mix well until combined.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Cut the chicken into 1/2 to 3/4-inch cubes:
– Place the cubed chicken in a bowl.
– Pour the Cajun seasoning over the chicken and stir to coat thoroughly.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken and Onions

Add the olive oil and butter to a large deep skillet over medium-high heat:
– Heat until hot and butter is melted and foamy.
– Add seasoned chicken to skillet; cook for couple of minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked through.
– Add diced yellow onion; sauté for about 2 minutes until onions begin to soften.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Next, add pasta, fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices), and chicken broth:
– Stir until everything is evenly combined.
– Place a lid on top; allow mixture to come up to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer

Once boiling:
– Turn heat down to medium-low.
– Let pasta simmer for about ten minutes while stirring occasionally until tender and liquid is thickened.

Step 6: Finish with Cream Cheese

Add cream cheese in chunks:
– Stir until melted into the sauce.
– Top with sliced green onions before serving hot.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Cajun chicken pasta!

How to Serve One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Serving One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is both simple and versatile. This dish is rich and flavorful, making it a delightful main course that pairs well with various sides. Here are some suggestions on how to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic pairing that complements the creamy sauce and adds a crunchy texture.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light salad, like a Caesar or garden salad, can balance the richness of the pasta and add freshness to your meal.

Serve with Grated Parmesan

• Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

Include Sliced Avocado

• Avocado slices provide a creamy contrast and boost the nutritional value of the meal.

Offer Hot Sauce on the Side

• For those who enjoy extra heat, serve hot sauce as a condiment to enhance the spicy Cajun flavors.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley or cilantro adds brightness and visual appeal, making your dish look even more appetizing.

How to Perfect One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

To achieve the best results when making One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to older ones.
• Cut chicken evenly: Cut chicken into uniform pieces for consistent cooking and better texture.
• Monitor pasta doneness: Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjust salt and spices according to your preference for heat and flavor.
• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps thicken the sauce.
• Store leftovers properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Choosing side dishes that complement your One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and color while being nutritious.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy pasta.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can bring out the flavors in the dish and offers a fun twist.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor that pairs well with Cajun spices.
5. Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy zucchini fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, adding flavor without heaviness.
6. Caprese Salad: This fresh tomato, basil, and mozzarella salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Make sure to coat the chicken well with Cajun seasoning. This adds essential flavor to your dish.
• Crowding the skillet: If your skillet is too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary for better results.
• Not letting the pasta simmer: Allowing the pasta to simmer long enough is crucial for it to absorb flavors and become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes; they add depth and richness. Avoid bland or low-quality canned tomatoes that could dull the taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on your pasta as it cooks. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and ruin the dish’s texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth to a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the pasta and cook until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize my One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of cayenne pepper added.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli or rotini. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?

This dish pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just portion out servings into containers after cooking.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream for similar creaminess without dairy.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Give this easy recipe a try on busy weeknights—you won’t be disappointed!